Why Producer Nadiadwala Sued Netflix for Using Baburao in Kapil Sharma Show
Just ahead of its finale with Akshay Kumar, The Great Indian Kapil Show faces a major legal storm. Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwala has sent a Rs.25 crore legal notice to Netflix and the show’s makers, accusing them of misusing the legendary Baburao Ganpatrao Apte character from Hera Pheri.
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Why the Lawsuit Matters
The controversy started after a promo showed comedian Kiku Sharda dressed as Baburao, a role immortalized by Paresh Rawal. Nadiadwala claims the parody was done without permission, amounting to copyright infringement under Section 51 and trademark violation under Section 29 of Indian law.
Nadiadwala’s Strong Statement
Calling Baburao “the soul of Hera Pheri,” Nadiadwala argued that the legacy was created with “sweat, vision, and creativity.” He stressed that Paresh Rawal nurtured the role and no one should exploit it for commercial gain. “Culture is for preservation, not exploitation,” he said in his statement.
Legal Demands in Notice
The notice includes several strict conditions:
- Removal of the Baburao act from Netflix, social media, and other platforms
- A written undertaking to avoid future misuse
- A formal apology within 24 hours
Rs.25 crore in damages, payable within two days
If ignored, Nadiadwala has warned of both civil and criminal action.
Will the Finale Be Affected?
Despite the controversy, the finale featuring Akshay Kumar is still scheduled for September 20. However, Netflix may be forced to edit or remove the skit if the legal battle escalates.
Baburao’s Legacy at Stake
Nadiadwala’s team emphasized that Baburao is a registered trademark and cannot be used freely. If his demands are met, the parody will likely be pulled down. This dispute has turned what was supposed to be a celebratory finale into a serious legal showdown.
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